EA Sports FC May Become an "Adult" Game in Europe

New European video game classification rules could raise the recommended age for games like EA Sports FC and other sports titles to 16+. On Thursday, December 12, PEGI (Pan European Game Information), the organization that sets video game age ratings in Europe, announced the addition of new criteria to its rating system. These criteria will now consider addictive design, unsupervised online communications, and the presence of loot box systems. Effective June of this year, these additions may lead to games like EA Sports FC—previously rated PEGI 3 (suitable for ages 3 and up)—being classified as PEGI 16 (suitable only for those over 16) due to the sale of card packs in its Ultimate Team mode. This change wouldn't just affect EA Sports FC. Virtually all current sports games, including NBA 2K, UFC, and F1, use similar mechanics. Consequently, the next iterations of these franchises are also likely to receive higher age ratings. Dirk Bosmans, director general of PEGI, explained that these changes were inspired by Germany's ratings board, USK, which implemented similar strategies years ago.

Potential Loopholes in PEGI's Classification System Raise Concern for Child-Marketed Mobile Games and Industry Wide Changes

On social media, SleepEnthusiast commented that these changes were overdue but expressed concern about potential loopholes, particularly regarding mobile games marketed to children. They cited past issues with ableism, instability in the AAA gaming sector, and the exploitation of gaming addiction as significant problems in the industry. In total, four criteria will be added when classifying a game. These changes to PEGI’s rating system will likely impact the video game industry significantly.

In Case You Missed It

From surprises at Microsoft to exciting hints on Xbox Game Pass, and a live podcast highlighting female protagonism in gaming, there's plenty to keep gamers buzzing this week! First off, Marcus Thompson has the scoop on why Microsoft quietly discontinued its "This is an Xbox" campaign. Could it signal a shift under new head Asha Sharma? Find out more in his piece published March 12th Microsoft Quietly Discontinues 'This is an Xbox' Campaign. Then, Carlos Mendoza hints at a potential game-changer for Xbox Game Pass lovers. Could one of the biggest RPGs in recent years be joining the platform? Tune into his March 3rd article Xbox Game Pass May Soon Receive One of the Biggest RPGs in Recent Years to find out! Lastly, mark your calendars for an inspiring live podcast event on March 7th. Jonathan Dubinski's "On Their Sights" aims to spark conversations about women's roles and experiences in gaming universes just before International Women's Day. Join the dialogue here On Their Sights: Live Podcast Highlights Female Protagonism in Gaming Universe for an open discussion on challenges faced and networking opportunities.